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<ul><li>The central government is set to launch <keyword id="7815662" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="20" keywordseo="Jal-Shakti-Abhiyan">Jal Shakti Abhiyan</keyword> to fight water crisis problems in the country. </li><li>The campaign will work out measures for <keyword id="6354898" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="20" keywordseo="Rainwater-harvesting">rainwater harvesting</keyword> and <keyword id="6362691" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="20" keywordseo="water-conservation">water conservation</keyword> efforts in 255 districts from July 1 to September 15, in its first phase and would be coordinated by central government IAS officers as decisions relating to water is a state issue. </li><li>The second phase will run from October 1 to November 30 in states that receive rains from the north-east monsoon. </li><li>Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on June 22, wrote letters to village panchayat heads and urged them to undertake rainwater harvesting and water conservation efforts in rural India. </li></ul>The new finance minister <keyword id="129243" type="PERSON" weightage="20" keywordseo="Nirmala-Sitharaman">Nirmala Sitharaman</keyword> will present the Union Budget for 2019-20 in the Parliament on July 5. Just days before, Prime Minister Narendra Modi set the tone for the big announcement likely on Friday by initiating the ‘Jal Shakti Abhiyan’, a project to conserve water through rainwater harvesting and other efforts to save water. Amid the high temperatures and severe water crisis, the country is going through, it would be among government’s main agenda to tackle the rapidly increasing water issues throughout the country, The major cities of India like Chennai and Bengaluru were recently in the news due to severe water crisis. The story of rural India is more frightening where 80% of rural homes does not have piped water supply. Only 18% of 17.9 million rural homes have tap water. The central government in efforts to deal with water related issues had merged the water resources and drinking water and sanitation ministries and formed the Jal Shakti Ministry. The new ministry, which has the decision making power over all international and interstate water disputes, the Clean Ganga project, and making drinking water accessible, will be hopeful of a handsome budget to deal with the The government is also set to launch the Jal Shakti Abhiyan to workout measures for rainwater harvesting and water conservation from July 1 in a phased manner, under the supervision of central government IAS officers of Joint or Additional Secretary-level in 255 districts. It seeks to work out measures for rainwater harvesting and water conservation efforts in 255 districts of the country starting July 1, 2019. The campaign is planned in a phased manner, where the first phase starts on July 1 and would run till September 15 in states receiving rainfall during the south-west monsoon, and would be coordinated by the IAS officers of Joint or Additional Secretary-rank from the 255 districts. The next phase will kickstart from October 1 and run till November 30 and will cover states that receive rainfall during the north-east monsoon. As water is not central government issue and state governments are free to decide upon policies for usage and water conservation, the officers will be drawn from various ministries of Government of India, including the Department of Space, Petroleum and Defence, <a href="https://dopt.gov.in/sites/default/files/31-16-2019-EOMM-I.pdf">according to the Department of Personnel and Training</a>. Prior to the launch of the campaign, high level teams were constituted in the 255 districts, and engineers and technical staff was designated in 1,539 blocks across the country to measure ground water levels, the state of aquifers, and ponds and water bodies under encroachment. India’s population is 17.74% of the total world population, whereas the water resources account for a mere 4%. This combined with ever increasing demand and depleting water sources due to encroachment, contamination and reduced rainfall, puts India in a grave situation. “As of today, India only conserves 8% of all rainfall, which is among the lowest in the world,” <a href="https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/under-jal-shakti-scheme-centre-to-focus-on-replenishing-water-bodies/story-heKzqsW0IzPfY0lwi9OjxI.html">a senior Jal Shakti official said</a>.”we need to change this.” In line with Gram Swaraj Abhiyan The Jal Shakti Abhiyan is in line with last year’s Gram Swaraj Abhiyan, where central government officials monitored the implementation of seven flagship development schemes in 117 districts across the country. To further achieve its target, the ministry will draft block and district level water conservation plans and the Kisan Vigyan Kendras would organise fests to promote better crop choices and more efficient usage of water for irrigation. To spread awareness about the campaign, major communications campaign on TV, radio, social media would be carried out, for which celebrities will also be roped in. The prime minister, on June 22, wrote letters to all village panchayat heads, and urged them to undertake rainwater harvesting and water conservation activities in rural India, <a href="http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=190639">as per PIB release</a>. “In the last four years, nearly 50,000 villages have used MGNREGA [rural income guarantee act] and other state funds to successfully conserve rain water in a big way,” rural development secretary <a href="https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/under-jal-shakti-scheme-centre-to-focus-on-replenishing-water-bodies/story-heKzqsW0IzPfY0lwi9OjxI.html">Amarjeet Sinha was quoted saying</a>. The government is also likely to announce a national water conservation policy along with a conservation programme for the 226 highly water stressed districts of the country, an official said. Plans with the MPs to prioritise water storage works under their local area development fund are also underway. “Any national policy on water has to pivot around ground water because “ground water is India’s water lifeline”. Secondly, he said there is a complete policy vacuum on the urban water sector and India urgently needs a programme to regulate its urban-water footprint,” said Himanshu Thakkar of the South Asia Network on Dams, Rivers and People.

Nirmala Sitharaman’s budget on Friday may push for water conservation

<ul><li>Chief Minister <keyword id="260213" type="PERSON" weightage="20" keywordseo="Arvind-Kejriwal">Arvind Kejriwal</keyword> took to Twitter to say that rainwater harvesting will be mandatory for all government offices in Delhi. </li><li>The government is also testing natural water storage in the Yamuna river floodplains.</li><li>The central government had recently launched an initiative on the lines of Swacch Bharat Abhiyan called <keyword id="7815662" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="20" keywordseo="Jal-Shakti-Abhiyan">Jal Shakti Abhiyan</keyword>.</li></ul>Delhi government is taking steps towards <keyword id="6362691" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="20" keywordseo="water-conservation">water conservation</keyword>. The Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal took to Twitter to announce multiple pilot projects for water conservation. One of them is to make rainwater harvesting mandatory for all government offices in the national capital. Kejriwal said that head of departments have been “directed to install systems in buildings which don't have it and existing systems to be cleaned and kept ready before monsoons”. Not just that, as the monsoon is expected to come in, the government also wants to test natural water storage in the Yamuna river floodplains. The central government recently launched an initiative called Jal Shakti Abhiyan' - a campaign for water conservation and water security, in the wake of an acute water crisis in the country. The delayed monsoon is expected to hit Delhi between July 3-5 and these water conservation projects seem to be the need of the hour. According to an IANS report, about 24 states in the country have received deficient rainfall in June with 250 districts across India reeling under severe water crisis.

In the wake of a national water crisis, Delhi government makes rainwater harvesting mandatory for all government offices

According to the <a href="http://www.businessinsider.in/searchresult.cms?query=United+Nations&amp;sortorder=effectivedate">United Nations</a>, water use has grown at more than twice the rate of population increase in the last century. It is estimated that the demand for water will surpass the supply as early as 2025. These issues call for urgent attention. 
 
 With problems like unplanned urbanization and water scarcity, India’s overall Environmental Technologies market including goods and services is almost $15 billion. An Indian startup is looking to address the global market for environmental goods which is targeted to reach $1.9 trillion by 2020. 
 <keyword id="3412127" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="Thinkphi">Thinkphi</keyword>’s long term goal is to manufacture sustainably engineered products that intelligently conserve water, energy and waste. Its ‘Ulta Chaata’ has already become a much needed solution for cities. 
 
The company’s first product, is almost like a smart tree called 'Ulta Chaata', an inverted canopy looking structure provides potable water by capturing rain water during the monsoon and solar energy during the rest of the year. Each unit has the capability to harvest and filter up to 100,000 liters during the rainy season. 
 
With a maximum solar capacity of 1.5KW the product also includes an intelligent lighting system which provides various levels of programmable lighting options and a mobile charge unit, thereby making it a completely self-sustaining installation for the outdoors. Powered by a central operating system called the ‘phi-box’, the controls help the lighting run for 4 to 5 days on a single solar charge and can provide potable quality drinking water through its in-built filter. 
 
The operating system also monitors, captures data, and allows users to communicate with a cluster of units over the cloud. The company has also filed multiple global patents on design and utility which smartly converges <a href="http://www.businessinsider.in/searchresult.cms?query=water+harvesting&amp;sortorder=effectivedate">water harvesting</a> and <a href="http://www.businessinsider.in/searchresult.cms?query=renewable+energy&amp;sortorder=effectivedate">renewable energy</a>, ideal for smart cities, industries or large campuses. 
 
The company has made some early sales of its patented Rainwater and Solar harvesting product to key customers like <a href="http://www.businessinsider.in/searchresult.cms?query=Godrej+Interio&amp;sortorder=effectivedate">Godrej Interio</a> and Rustomjee. 
 
The startup uses a unique interactive process of <a href="http://www.businessinsider.in/searchresult.cms?query=product+development&amp;sortorder=effectivedate">product development</a> which is closely tied to its proprietary sustainability wheel. Its goal is to become the Earth’s most sustainable company. 
 
<a href="http://s3.favim.com/orig/140405/blue-cloud-illustration-rain-Favim.com-1611393.jpg">Image Source</a>

This startup is looking to harvest rain water and solar energy like never before

<ul class="summary-list"><li><keyword id="6373314" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="Design">Design</keyword> studio Grimshaw created a concept for a floating home that can survive rising sea levels.</li><li>The dwellings are modular, so components can be mass-produced in factories and assembled at a low cost.</li><li>Energy will come from solar panels, with shaded lower pontoons using little energy.</li></ul>Design studio Grimshaw and manufacturers Concrete Valley collaborated on their design for Modular Water Dwellings. The structures are essentially floating homes, designed to withstand the upcoming effects of <keyword id="6361617" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="climate-change">climate change</keyword> and use energy more sustainably.The floating homes will be made on an assembly line, creating a modular final product from several standardized pieces. This is an approach taken by many tiny home companies to make construction more affordable, and allow customers to customize their homes based on available pieces.<div type="image" title="Water Dwellings perspective" height="1406" width="1875" msid="76494737" hostid="261"></div>Concrete Valley's manufacturing facility sits on a waterway in the Netherlands, which will allow for the homes to be assembled at the factory and transported to their destinations, ready to move into. Grimshaw told Business Insider that this also reduces the total energy used in construction because no on-site assembly is required.<div type="image" title="Model image 2.JPG" height="1667" width="2223" msid="76494740" hostid="261"></div>The designers cited affordability and <keyword id="49089" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="60" keywordseo="Sustainability">sustainability</keyword> as reasons for making this design, which they say would offer "<keyword id="136927" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="60" keywordseo="affordable-housing">affordable housing</keyword>, free of the constraints of land-based construction and resilient to the mounting threat of flooding from rising sea-levels."According to a UN report from last year, <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/sea-level-rise-3-feet-in-80-years-un-report-2019-9">sea levels could rise</a> as much as three feet within 80 years, which would displaces hundreds of millions of people. <div type="image" title="sustainable water dwelling" height="1014" width="1352" msid="76494742" hostid="261"></div>Designers use the water under the dwelling as part of temperature regulation, using it to heat and cool. The upper level also has solar panels to collect energy during the day, and harvest rainwater for an off-the-grid possibility. Heat exchangers also create a communal energy supply for a group of dwellings, with the potential for almost zero net energy use.<div type="image" title="diagram" height="895" width="1193" msid="76494745" hostid="261"></div>The rest of the design also contributes to low energy use. Each level is well insulated, with lower levels that naturally stay cool due to shade and the concrete pontoons. Designers believe that the aspects of the home that make it so unique, like its location on the water, and the potential community of other water dwellings, can contribute to the health and wellbeing of residents. People living in the homes would be close to nature, with beautiful views and access to water. They also promote the idea of communal water activities, like fishing or parasailing, or even using the pontoons to create shared communal spaces like floating gardens and terraces.<div type="image" title="health" height="1250" width="1667" msid="76494748" hostid="261"></div>For now, the Modular Water Dwellings are still in the development stage as Grimshaw and Concrete Valley continue to create prototypes, though they say that they plan to bring them to the market once they're satisfied with the quality and affordability.

These floating homes are designed to withstand rising sea levels while harvesting their own energy and water — here's how they work

<ul class="summary-list"><li>Mexico City could run out of drinking water by June 26, an event locals call "Day Zero."</li><li>Three years of low rainfall and high temperatures have worsened the city's water crisis.</li></ul>Experts say that Mexico City <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/jackson-mississippi-woman-hit-with-4000-bill-following-water-crisis-2022-10">could run out of drinking</a> water by the end of June, an event locals call "Day Zero."Mexico City has long struggled to bring water to its millions of residents, but three consecutive years of low rainfall and high temperatures have created a serious emergency.The Cutzamala water system — a series of treatment plants, reservoirs, and canals that provide water to tens of millions of people — is running dry.Conditions are so bad that the <a target="_blank" href="https://droughtmonitor.unl.edu/nadm/home/NADMByArea.aspx?MX09">North American Drought Monitor</a> classified the federal district containing Mexico City as "severe" on April 30. Locals expect "Day Zero" could come as soon as June 26, <a target="_blank" href="https://mexicobusiness.news/health/news/mexicos-water-crisis-deep-well-dilemma-quality-concern">according to Mexico Business News.</a>While local politicians downplayed <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/jackson-mississippi-woman-hit-with-4000-bill-following-water-crisis-2022-10">the water crisis</a> for months, several neighborhoods have already seen their water run out, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.cnn.com/2024/02/25/climate/mexico-city-water-crisis-climate-intl/index.html">CNN reported</a>.The Mexican government <a target="_blank" href="https://www.gob.mx/cms/uploads/attachment/file/135612/WB_BrochureCutzamala_CMYK__printed_version__-_A4.pdf">describes the Cutzamala system</a> as "vital to the lives of millions of Mexicans" living in the Mexico City Metropolitan Area and the Valley of Toluca Metropolitan Area.The system normally moves about 15 cubic meters of water a second and provides service to about 22 million people. It's now operating at 28% capacity, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/climate-environment/2024/05/25/mexico-city-water-day-zero/">The Washington Post reported</a>.Crumbling infrastructure is also contributing to the problem. About 40% of Mexico City's water is lost due to leaky pipes and other issues, the Post reported.Gabriel Quadri de la Torre, a federal congressman for the Mexico City district of Coyoacán, told the outlet that fixing the pipes would cost billions and that it's "very difficult to think" the city will have the money to pay for it.With June 26 fast approaching, the city desperately needs rain. But rainfall might cause a "false sense of security," Christina Boyes, a professor at the Center for Economic Research and Teaching in Mexico City, told the Post.Researchers from the National Autonomous University of Mexico said in a study that intensive water capture, using treated residual water for agriculture, and refilling aquifers with surface water, could save the Cutzmala system, according to Mexico Business News.The study found that only 75% of farms in the area use irrigated water, and most do not reuse the water when they can. Still, the study's plan would cost an estimated $5 billion, the report says.Mexico's National Water Commission <a target="_blank" href="https://www.gob.mx/conagua/prensa/avanzan-autoridades-en-infraestructura-complementaria-del-sistema-cutzamala">announced in February</a> that it's working on projects to improve the Cutzamala system and help supplement some of the water it is losing. As part of the action, the Mexico City Water System introduced a plan to improve infrastructure reliability, strengthen programs for private company participation in the water network, and harvest rainwater in schools, the agency said.

Mexico City could run out of water in a month unless it rains

Whenever <keyword id="2069863" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="Bhumi-Pednekar" source="Orion">Bhumi Pednekar</keyword> is mentioned, the image of strong female characters inevitably springs to mind. She has made her mark in films like 'Dum Laga Ke Haisha', 'Toilet: Ek Prem Katha' and 'Bhakshak', earning acclaim for her portrayals tackling social issues. It turns out her dedication to impactful roles extends beyond the silver screen — a commitment that has now earned her recognition as a <keyword id="120368" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Young-Global-Leader" source="Orion">Young Global Leader</keyword> (YGL) by the <keyword id="69007" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="World-Economic-Forum" source="Orion">World Economic Forum</keyword> (WEF)! The Young Global Leaders community celebrates individuals under 40 who are actively addressing pressing global challenges. The program aims to empower these exceptional leaders shaping a more sustainable and inclusive future. The Bollywood star will join the prestigious YGL's class of 2024 in Geneva later this year, acknowledged for her efforts in promoting awareness of <keyword id="49089" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="sustainability" source="Orion">sustainability</keyword>, and climate change, and her significant contributions during the COVID-19 pandemic. As an ardent advocate for environmental conservation and sustainable living, Bhumi has effectively utilised her fame to champion causes like waste segregation, rainwater harvesting, recycling, and conscious fashion choices. Her role as a climate warrior has also seen her collaborating with activists nationwide, amplifying their voices and supporting initiatives focused on environmental preservation and <keyword id="299722" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="climate-action" source="Orion">climate action</keyword>. Expressing gratitude for being named a Young Global Leader, Bhumi shared: “I am deeply honoured and humbled to be recognised by the World Economic Forum as a Young Global Leader. Through my work, I have strived to ignite conversations, inspire action, and foster tangible change in the realm of sustainability and climate change. “I aspire to cultivate a diverse portfolio as both an actor and entrepreneur, and I look forward to realising these ambitions through the World Economic Forum's YGL program. This validation also reaffirms my belief in the power of collective action. I am committed to continuing my efforts and I look forward to collaborating with fellow Young Global Leaders to drive positive change.” In addition to Bhumi, the WEF has also acknowledged four other Indians for their significant contributions in their respective fields and their commitment to effecting positive change. These individuals, including <keyword id="2422251" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Adwaita-Nayar" source="Orion">Adwaita Nayar</keyword> (CEO of Nykaa), <keyword id="4976567" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Arjun-Bhartia" source="Orion">Arjun Bhartia</keyword> (Director at Jubilant Group), <keyword id="8656479" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Priya-Agarwal-Hebbar" source="Orion">Priya Agarwal Hebbar</keyword> (Non-Executive Director at Vedanta Limited) and <keyword id="1011865" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Sharad-Vivek-Sagar" source="Orion">Sharad Vivek Sagar</keyword> (Founder and CEO of Dexterity Global), join nearly 90 changemakers from various sectors in this year's YGL cohort. Together, they are dedicated to leaving a lasting impact on their communities and beyond.

Young Global Leader: World Economic Forum recognises Bhumi Pednekar for her role in promoting sustainability

<ul class="summary-list"><li>Liu Thai Ker, 86, is an urban planner who's often considered the architect of modern Singapore.</li><li>He helped build public housing apartments and oversaw the development of the city's land-use plans.</li></ul>Towering skyscrapers, candy-colored <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/see-inside-public-housing-singapore-hdb-million-dollars-blue-zone-2023-11">public housing apartment blocks</a>, and lush green spaces — Singapore has long been recognized for its meticulous urban planning.The city-state is home to a population of <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.population.gov.sg/our-population/population-trends/overview/">5.9 million</a> people despite spanning just <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.singstat.gov.sg/publications/reference/ebook/society/environment#:~:text=The%20main%20island%20of%20Singapore,Water%20Mark%20cadastral%20survey%20boundaries.">284 square miles</a>, and much of the credit for the city's layout goes to <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://morrow.sg/dr-liu-thai-ker/">Liu Thai Ker</a>, 86, an urban planner who's often considered the architect of modern Singapore.<div type="image" title="Liu Thai Ker smiling at the camera." height="3840" width="5760" msid="112030496" hostid="261"></div>During his time at the Housing Development Board, Liu oversaw the building of 20 new towns and more than half a million housing units in the city. In the late 80s and early 90s, he also served as the chief planner of the Urban Redevelopment Authority, where he developed Singapore's land-use plans.And yet, Liu has said he has <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.nytimes.com/2024/05/24/world/asia/singapore-public-housing-urban-planner.html">two regrets about how Singapore was planned</a>.<h2 id="8410c561-8267-4462-80d5-ddaa3060ded9">Creating bicycle paths for the city</h2>"When I was in the HDB, I raised the issue of planning bicycle paths for citizens," Liu told Business Insider. "At that time, my colleagues and I had several discussions but eventually decided against it due to Singapore's tropical climate, which we felt would be too hot for cycling."<div type="image" title="A lone cyclist riding their bike along a path at the Gardens by The Bay in Singapore." height="3000" width="4500" msid="112030495" hostid="261"></div>But he said the attitudes of Singaporeans and people around the world today had changed.Liu said he wished he'd developed bike sections for roads and incorporated bicycle paths into streets. "Fortunately, I believe it is still possible to do so," he added.Last year, the local outlet The Straits Times reported that local authorities were planning to <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/transport/new-cycling-paths-in-7-towns-will-be-progressively-completed-from-2024-lta">double the city's existing cycling network</a> from 530 kilometers now to 1,300 kilometers by 2030.Thomas Schroepfer, a professor of architecture and sustainable design at the Singapore University of Technology and Design, told BI that integrating more bicycle paths would enhance Singapore's sustainability efforts, aligning with global trends in urban development seen in cities such as Amsterdam and Copenhagen.<div type="image" title="A sign for a shared track for pedestrians and cyclists, with people cycling and walking on a path underneath it." height="3624" width="4832" msid="112030507" hostid="261"></div>"Creating bicycle paths is crucial for sustainable cities and would benefit Singapore by reducing traffic congestion, lowering emissions, and improving public health through increased physical activity," Schroepfer said.He also said bicycle paths could boost local economies, as cyclists are more likely to stop at local businesses.<h2 id="074f9e83-7b88-45b6-af47-9ca34ce5b0a4">Preserving squatter huts for the younger generations to see</h2>Singapore's skyline today includes some world-famous builds.There's the <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/i-toured-singapores-marina-bay-sands-resort-rooftop-pool-tour-2023-1">Marina Bay Sands and its infinity pool</a>. There's the <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/oasia-hotel-downtown-singapore-green-living-tower-2022-6">Oasia Hotel in downtown Singapore</a>, which has been called a "living tower" for the greenery that's intentionally growing over its 620-foot facade. And there's <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.visitsingapore.com/neighbourhood/featured-neighbourhood/marina-bay/esplanades-theatres-on-the-bay/">Esplanade</a>, a theater by the Singapore River that's nicknamed "The Durian" for its resemblance to the tropical fruit.But in the '60s, Singapore looked drastically different.According to the <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.mnd.gov.sg/our-city-our-home/our-early-struggles">Ministry of National Development</a>, an estimated 300,000 people lived in semi-permanent shelters in squatter areas, while another 250,000 were in rented partitioned cubicles in old shophouses.<div type="image" title="A black-and-white photo of a busy street in Singapore." height="2728" width="3508" msid="112030500" hostid="261"></div>Through the HDB, the government managed to rehouse about 1.2 million squatters by 1985, Liu said."While it is a very gratifying achievement, my regret is that we did not attempt to save a few hectares of the original squatter colonies for Singaporeans of today and future generations to see how far we have transformed the city to its present condition," Liu said."No amount of photographs or written text, can convey adequately the poor living conditions of our squatters in the early days," he continued. "As we always say, seeing is believing. While regretfully, we can no longer see our squatter colonies today, this also implies that Singaporeans are living in much better conditions."<div type="image" title="Several high-rise apartment blocks." height="1358" width="1811" msid="112030493" hostid="261"></div>Indeed, Singapore's <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/singapore-architecture-shows-why-it-is-blue-zone-dan-buettner-2023-9">public housing apartments</a> are home to about 80% of the country's resident population today.While there are no squatter settlements in Singapore anymore, other old architectural features, such as <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/singapore-renovation-shophouse-conservation-joo-chiat-peranakan-inside-photos-2023-3">shophouses</a> and <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/singapore-black-and-white-colonial-bungalow-inside-photos-2022-5">black-and-white colonial bungalows</a>, have been conserved.Rita Padawangi, an associate professor at the Singapore University of Social Sciences, told BI the purpose of preservation should be to encourage the younger generation to think about who they are as individuals and as a society."Squatter huts are probably a reminder of the need for supporting infrastructures so that people do not take for granted the basic standard of living that is almost universal in Singapore, which is a tremendous achievement," she said. "But we must also think about the people who live in these old homes when they are preserved, because preservation is only meaningful when the place is lived in."<div type="image" title="An old wooden house on stilts by the beach." height="1412" width="1883" msid="112030501" hostid="261"></div>Instead of conserving squatter settlements — where people lived in squalid conditions — it'd be better to conserve the "kampongs," or villages, of Singapore instead, she said.She added that this would allow younger generations to learn about urban change, what Singapore has achieved, and what has been lost along the way.She said two places in Singapore still come to mind when locals think about the old days: <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/singapore-last-traditional-village-kampong-lorong-buangkok-photos-real-estate-2022-3">Kampong Lorong Buangkok</a>, the last traditional village in Singapore, and Pulau Ubin, a small island off the northeast coast of Singapore that's <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.sg101.gov.sg/resources/connexionsg/pulauubin/#:~:text=Home%20to%20only%20a%20small,a%20popular%20getaway%20destination%20today.">home to about 38 villagers</a>."They are still around not because they are purposely preserved. These two places are still lived in, and that is why they become meaningful," she said.<h2 id="132f44b2-6dea-4c94-8796-c0699d5ba88a">Toward the future</h2>Singapore already has an efficient waste-management system and advanced water-management strategies such as rainwater harvesting, desalination, and wastewater recycling, Schroepfer said.At the same time, the city has been <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://edition.cnn.com/2023/06/09/asia/air-conditioning-singapore-climate-change-intl-hnk-dst/index.html">criticized for its heavy reliance on air conditioning</a> — which puts a strain on the environment but also provides relief from the hot and humid climate, where the <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.todayonline.com/singapore/5-takeaways-new-climate-report-2336471">average daily temperature</a> is about 82 degrees Fahrenheit.<div type="image" title="Multiple air-conditioning units on the back of buildings." height="1414" width="2121" msid="112030502" hostid="261"></div>In recent years, the government has been ramping up its efforts to <a target="_blank" class="" href="https://www.straitstimes.com/business/suntec-city-to-join-marina-bay-district-cooling-network-by-2027">improve the city's district cooling system</a>, in which a centralized chiller plant is used to cool multiple buildings through a network of underground pipes carrying chilled water.But Schroepfer said that to future-proof the city for challenges such as the climate crisis and population growth, there are other measures that Singapore can take."Urban planning should prioritize sustainability, inclusivity, and resilience," he added. "Integrating green spaces, efficient public transport, and renewable energy sources are crucial."

Singapore is considered one of the best-designed cities in the world. The man who masterminded it has 2 regrets.

<ul><li>In recent years, Bhumi has stepped onto a bigger stage – one where the spotlight shines on environmental and climate awareness. </li><li>Acknowledging her efforts, the <keyword id="19984049" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="UNDP" source="keywords">UNDP</keyword> named her as India's first National Advocate for <keyword id="19950641" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="sustainable-development-goals" source="keywords">Sustainable Development Goals</keyword> (SDGs).</li><li>In an exclusive interview with <keyword id="21390875" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Business-Insider-India" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Business Insider India" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="Business Insider India">Business Insider India</keyword>, <keyword id="19939209" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="Bhumi-Pednekar" source="keywords">Bhumi Pednekar</keyword> spoke about her struggles with eco-anxiety and her take on the <keyword id="20000756" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="climate-action" source="keywords">climate action</keyword>.</li></ul> Lights, camera, Earth! When we first saw Bhumi Pednekar in Dum Laga Ke Haisha in 2015, we witnessed her impressive acting skills and her ability to connect with the audience. With time, she grew into a formidable presence on the Indian cinema landscape, paving the way for socially-aware, yet entertaining filmography. In recent years, this Bollywood superstar has stepped onto a bigger stage – one where the spotlight shines on environmental and climate awareness. In a world where the spotlight often blinds stars to the sufferings of the planet and its people, Bhumi reminds us that every person on this planet needs to keep that spark for eco-consciousness alive. In an exclusive interview with Business Insider India, Bhumi Pednekar spoke about her struggles with eco-anxiety during her early years, her efforts to strike a balance between her professional career and environmental responsibilities, her advice for the younger audience, and her take on the climate action across the globe. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QDxplE0_Os4" data-type="tilCustomLink">Catch the full interview here!</a> <div type="image" title="Actress Bhumi Pednekar" agency="Business Insider India" msid="109502773" hostid="261" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Actress Bhumi Pednekar&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div> “When I started my climate journey, it was a very lonely path for me, Every time I spoke about it, people made fun of me. Eventually, through the years, I met like-minded people, and I realised that this is a real problem. Even today, I get really worried, I have bouts of anxiety and go into a spiral that you know, what will happen now and so on. In such times, what truly helps me is to actually do something towards dealing with the problem,” says Bhumi. Acknowledging her efforts to spread awareness on these critical topics, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) named her as India's first National Advocate for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Just last month, the World Economic Forum (WEF) recognised her as a Young Global Leader (YGL). On <keyword id="21293562" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Earth-Day" source="keywords">Earth Day</keyword> 2024, she also joined UNDP’s global initiative called the ‘The Weather Kids’ — a global campaign to raise awareness about climate change and drive the world towards taking meaningful climate action. Talking about the campaign Bhumi Pednekar stated, "I’m deeply disturbed by Climate Change and the impact that it is having the world over. I have dedicated my life to working on this and helping raise awareness… I have always been committed to using my platform to raise awareness about the urgency of climate action and to empower individuals and communities to adopt sustainable practices. Together, we can make a difference and create a more sustainable and resilient world for future generations.” Further, Bhumi’s role as a <keyword id="21390874" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="climate-warrior" source="keywords">climate warrior</keyword> has also seen her collaborating with activists and institutions nationwide, amplifying their voices and supporting initiatives focused on environmental preservation and climate action. As an ardent advocate for environmental and climate action, she has effectively utilised her fame to champion causes like waste segregation, rainwater harvesting, recycling, and conscious fashion choices. <div type="image" title="Actress Bhumi Pednekar" agency="Business Insider India" msid="109503174" hostid="261" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Actress Bhumi Pednekar&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div> “Climate Warrior, which is our nonprofit, is an advocacy platform I started in 2019. The idea was to bring all the work of creating awareness under one umbrella. And then we started the Bhumi Foundation, through which we are again just trying to streamline everything that we do, we have not opened it up for others to come in and work,” said Bhumi, encouraging younger generations to also find their own tribe to influence and drive change. The theme for today’s World Earth Day 2024 is Planet Vs Plastic, and it is time for all of us to gauge our individual and collective impact on our environment and try to reduce it. “One big thing that we can do is to look for and support businesses that are trying to go green and create a positive impact on our planet. If investors support such businesses, and consumers pick such products, our carbon footprint can be lesser,” explains Bhumi. “Every day is Earth Day. This is our only home, there is no alternative, and there is no plan B! The way we show empathy and sympathy towards our loved ones, we should show empathy towards everybody else that we share this planet with. It really breaks my heart when you see on the news that a major city like Bangalore is still witnessing a water crisis and our capital city Delhi has winter days where schools are canceled because of the pollution. We are all in this together, we all are a part of the problem. And we all need to be a part of the solution as well,” concludes Bhumi. Disclaimer: The opinions expressed are of the interviewee and do not necessarily reflect the views of Business Insider India. The excerpts has been partly edited for length and clarity.

Earth Day 2024: Actress Bhumi talks about 'Pednekar ke ped', ostrich mentality, climate anxiety and more

<ul class="summary-list"><li>A University of Michigan study found that urban-farmed produce has six times the carbon footprint of conventional farms.</li><li>The study faced backlash from advocates and students, saying it overlooked broader environmental harms of industrial farming.</li></ul>Research <a target="_blank" href="https://l.businessinsider.com/u/click?_t=c8e10479a20f45bba5aad6c5f6fbb009&amp;_m=gKkE9A8NehnuDzRzdSau7uq09zqBFd0Sr&amp;_e=NR1opUQhz8M8yUJSUPdig3DFkL5V9rgD-5rPgW0GroA3pbpNmWwHXHGoo74aMXoja_anmr5pb3xh2lAililuTXgADjvTB3UukpAGOLG2SrF_kHfHX8zWICcHcKop4L0aKMXPonVY2xRp0XQZ64IarUuA1R8qw3q4PhAWCWLXY9G0Ydc33x8xgJlvwIMOIziP3Z-9UFI-oql6pfu6qQZ029n5vwVI8SKZfYQDpHggYmAQ4UKQidwQlNlDsWkZAuRowdkRGettNr8zhYW8J95CuNYB-Cw-9oK6upgD5EWEWS6iDszTxyLPdRKl875Oy0xrfCdQvujTUBTHwLNEkZzQUPamO9sHlTOsQ-4qdI45hc-8w4OddF1Nl87AQ7xMgakArmdYr9fCcdKuJiA_rugYKFOk-U9RjTT7RnXWsEZhTWR7O5EnVSqmCgZepdYmPbcW">out of the University of Michigan</a> sent shockwaves through the urban-farming and home-gardening community earlier this year.Fruits and vegetables grown on urban farms have on average six times the carbon footprint of produce from conventional farms, the study, which was <a target="_blank" href="https://l.businessinsider.com/u/click?_t=c8e10479a20f45bba5aad6c5f6fbb009&amp;_m=gKkE9A8NehnuDzRzdSau7uq09zqBFd0Sr&amp;_e=NR1opUQhz8M8yUJSUPdigyVBLt12lmLv8Kq9KF0cdQjoc2NlXgdVGSzgZOXMbm41vySv-6bNirXuVkKEe4zYtRkHu-IV1v-0W-C-yK4FbMXEzIDCy-JCwmYVkyCXPCIt2GwU70ZNcgMDFzgtobt0rzfExa7hjIiSLi_pcqLW2kO3pVFQcy7kUXs39I6Rq9wju-WZ0vlmecmINrxBN9ZlJ5IWP5OA4NsjW1Lcdyo2mGApareaYJhL08j0yXO26bFKkuoZpKWHf3GXRwKkOy8zXWmj-Kcrz1J0L6WBc62tiL4P3v0ro9hAQbfEHHc7kE_oV4DP2reIpebcW5qmhTJTl5SGFjtT9G7XfyABNejPDL36yWuOPnzr4CRUZtQ7yRsLaw9tRD6Q5rBum95o9X5wyvVfLtgRn8X0hgcDynU7SsN5GiVtwX7Hhsk4mjeU0PZLIyNOKWiVR8ho8NL8nP_KtJupdV9Nm8W6gMK_72cr67R_x7w6OxLbRRXv_bHKQhY-">published in the peer-reviewed journal Nature Cities</a>, found.The backlash was swift. University of Michigan students organized a rebuttal letter, arguing that narrowly focusing on carbon emissions overlooked the broader environmental harms of industrial-scale farming such as biodiversity loss and water pollution. Some angry homesteaders on TikTok and YouTube circulated conspiracy theories about the government not wanting people to be self-sufficient. The research landed as cities including Detroit, <a target="_blank" href="https://l.businessinsider.com/u/click?_t=c8e10479a20f45bba5aad6c5f6fbb009&amp;_m=gKkE9A8NehnuDzRzdSau7uq09zqBFd0Sr&amp;_e=NR1opUQhz8M8yUJSUPdigxWxojJ8J5pQHuZpUrbvrUbrww7LkgQb0AoKMWISaksztKtNGWhZGbvGryiqPWhFFsNaqynonrY4jZWjZhw-pUXygoC1Auv-xnNPN7GXFHLkI2CdpXSvhXB65J1tq-Z7KNwMBrzEZeDJVuhbNpl1wQcXgx7t3XJKBmcOF4M2o9uCa8eQpctf2Vm6eOrxomO0Gzp72AUSDIcC7_kGXufuZOkPZ4a53ELdiw77soVlQrQLgIcfaMcckVhcpzwIN2IK3sXHOp2y_WBwNwwATroicweQP01heQnBSkyioVIyYhaKYUY_Cg2lsJcZ7tnqtHpYi8ABvbrVPPGavVaK6iAY6g-yusAyUHL2rTnUDi8Q5ln751TcAK2Xy9DpvP6b1qos-sp1bo2WuFLCi0n1JPwIWno%3D">Philadelphia</a>, and Washington, DC, increasingly invest in urban agriculture to promote sustainability and become more resilient to the climate crisis. The researchers told Business Insider that while the many social benefits of urban farming were well understood — such as improving access to fresh food in disadvantaged communities — some climate claims warranted more scrutiny."Urban agriculture is not a magical climate solution," Jason Hawes, a coauthor of the study and a doctoral student at the University of Michigan School for Environment and Sustainability, said. "But there is evidence that with the right kind of planning and investments, it can be more climate-friendly. So we wanted to figure out what those interventions looked like."Hawes said that produce grown on 17 out of the 73 urban farms his team studied across five countries had lower carbon footprints than produce from conventional farms. The urban sites tended to have longer life spans, reuse waste for compost and building materials, reuse water, and maximize social benefits for their communities.The infrastructure used to build urban gardens matters a lot, Hawes said, because new materials come with their own carbon footprint. Choosing crops such as tomatoes or asparagus, which are typically grown in energy-intensive greenhouses and transported on a plane, respectively, also matters.<h2>Fury among urban farmers</h2>The headlines offended advocates of urban agriculture, according to interviews with a Detroit city official and other academics, as well as the letter circulated by University of Michigan students and shared with BI.These advocates questioned whether comparing the per-serving carbon footprint of produce from urban and conventional agriculture was appropriate, given the vastly different scale of these systems and the roles they serve in society.Mainly, they worried the study would let conventional agriculture — which <a target="_blank" href="https://l.businessinsider.com/u/click?_t=c8e10479a20f45bba5aad6c5f6fbb009&amp;_m=gKkE9A8NehnuDzRzdSau7uq09zqBFd0Sr&amp;_e=NR1opUQhz8M8yUJSUPdig22tyCNchXZAgdxwipimYVznOXFPGv5B5brtbrGUrJWehR9wef9PKiYCdUXXAUTzNCYnCgz5hBndgRonmOFmB8BZI1-3lB5d6Sx9aONB53xyVAKlJvXWlCjlPnSu7v9X7gCcNh3xGtMpUXVN47WmLbh2wFs0l_GI4jAPWh_pHeT7Ztm2dQTrnHg1HAWtXxEd-7j9o9KL7BxVH7ScfYjIGIec_OVLTdtt76ESASEzhfe_gQ9jq0qesHUUboO1ZbAeEC2XbWTtqDM8h-n7kl3tyPJrlQJtL8Y3N1OU6SdGlJeLKC46maN-qpJk3kfzcaBsz10HYy2wx0RZ6iDgFCzWUvQ%3D">globally accounts for about one-third of greenhouse-gas emissions</a> — off the hook and undermine a burgeoning movement to expand urban green spaces and promote food sovereignty, especially in communities of color burdened by pollution. "I thought the study took a lot of the onus off of conventional agriculture, which we are in the process of recreating," Tepfirah Rushdan, who last year became Detroit's first director of urban agriculture, told BI. "The reason for the shift is because industrial agriculture is a strain on our planet."Rushdan also argued that urban farms are a much more sustainable use of land than commercial or industrial development.The letter organized by students at the University of Michigan said the research addressed "critical research gaps" but should have been more nuanced by incorporating more of the environmental harms of conventional agriculture. The letter also alluded to the structural problems that can prevent urban farms from being more permanent, including commercial development and barriers to landownership.Hawes and his coauthor <a target="_blank" href="https://seas.umich.edu/research/faculty/benjamin-goldstein">Benjamin Goldstein</a>, an assistant professor at the University of Michigan School for Environment and Sustainability, said they're sensitive to the concerns, and were responding to them, but stood by the methodology."Our work does not lessen the many benefits that urban agriculture provides," Hawes said in an email. "We put one specific claim to the test with the best available data. This is not an indictment of the process as a whole. Instead, it is an indictment of the environment in which urban agriculture is forced to exist — with constant pressures on land tenure, with resource constraints, and with a constant back and forth about the 'true purpose' of the practice."Hawes and Goldstein said they had crafted policy briefs for city officials and the US Department of Agriculture that underscore how important urban agriculture is for sustainability and local food production. They also are working on a letter to Detroit farmers, many of whom reached out to Hawes to say they'd already adopted the best practices outlined in the study.Despite the controversy, the research led some urban gardeners to reevaluate their practices. Monica Fitzgerald, a backyard gardener in Boulder, Colorado, told BI that she didn't think the headlines were true at first. Part of the reason she grows her own food is to be more sustainable and improve local biodiversity.But after reading the main findings, she learned a few lessons and shared them on TikTok <a target="_blank" href="https://www.tiktok.com/@colorado.monica/video/7328188157705424170?_r=1&amp;_t=8jiNGzWHC2d">to dispel other users' conspiracy theories</a>."Try to make things with materials you already have," she said. "Order fewer seeds online. Compost at home. Extend the lifetime of a raised bed, shed, or shovel. Not only does it save you money, it saves you carbon emissions."Are you a gardener or urban farmer who is finding ways to save money and reduce your carbon footprint? Reach out to this reporter at <a target="_blank" href="mailto:cboudreau@businessinsider.com">cboudreau@businessinsider.com</a>.

Gardeners are fuming about a study that found produce from urban farms has a high carbon footprint      

<keyword id="6384473" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="tomato" source="Orion">Tomato</keyword> is emerging as one of the major off-season cash crops in lower and mid-hills of Himachal Pradesh. Solan, Sirmaur and <keyword id="155897" type="General" weightage="50" keywordseo="kullu" source="Orion">Kullu</keyword> districts harvests 86 per cent of the state's overall production. Off-seasonal tomato cultivation peaks during monsoon in the hills when the crop is not harvesting in plains of north India. The state annually produces 320,700 tonnes of tomato and aims to increase its production by 498,000 tonnes. Agriculture Minister <keyword id="1150518" type="General" weightage="50" keywordseo="virender-kanwar" source="Orion">Virender Kanwar</keyword> told IANS for some farmers off-seasonal tomato cultivation is the main source of income. About 46 per cent of the state's total plantation is in Solan district with more than 90 per cent of the produce going to markets in neighbouring states mainly Delhi. The other tomato growing belts are Sirmaur (30 per cent) and Kullu (10 per cent), while the remaining is in Shimla, <keyword id="86092" type="General" weightage="50" keywordseo="mandi" source="Orion">Mandi</keyword> and Bilaspur districts. Most of the farmers prefer to sell their produce through local agriculture produce market committees, whileAAAAA some send directly to Agricultural Produce Market Committee (APMCs) of other states. A group of farmers from Salogra have a market linkage with online retail stores like BigBasket. A sell the tomato produce through e-marketplace. At present, 22,753 farmers, many of them with small landholdings, are engaged in tomato production with an annual turnover of Rs 203 crore. Polyhouses are also being used to produce off-season vegetables, said Kanwar. CSK Himachal Pradesh Agricultural University in Palampur has developed disease-resistant high-yielding tomato varieties. They are Palam Pink, Palam Pride, Him Pragati, Him Palam, <keyword id="14357957" type="General" weightage="50" keywordseo="cherry-yellow" source="Orion">Cherry Yellow</keyword> and <keyword id="14357956" type="General" weightage="50" keywordseo="palam-tomato-hybrid" source="Orion">Palam Tomato Hybrid</keyword> 1. To promote its cultivation, the university is regularly organizing capacity building programmes, benefitting over 25,000 farmers. The Minister said the government is also extending irrigation facilities and promoting rainwater harvesting. For systematic diversification of crops, the Agriculture Department has chalked out a plan for the introduction of high-yielding hybrids of vegetables, popularization of a micro-irrigation system and protected cultivation. For improvement of quality, organic and natural farming is also being promoted across the state. Subsidy to the tune of 50 per cent is being provided to the farmers for diversification of cereal crops to vegetables under Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana, wherein the tomato crop cultivation is also being promoted, added Kanwar. SEE ALSO: <a target="_blank" class="c-link c-message_attachment__title_link" href="https://www.businessinsider.in/politics/news/who-will-get-the-party-symbol-bow-and-arrow-if-shiv-sena-splits/articleshow/92611630.cms">It’s not the CM seat but the one who wields ‘bow and arrow’ will be the Sena head</a> <a target="_blank" class="c-link c-message_attachment__title_link" href="https://www.businessinsider.in/sustainability/news/ban-on-single-use-plastic-kicks-in-across-india-as-the-country-recognises-the-choking-impacts-of-plastic-waste-on-the-environment/articleshow/92600992.cms">Ban on single-use plastic kicks in across India as the country recognises the choking impacts of plastic waste on the environment</a>

Tomato is changing the fortunes of Himachal farmers in Solar, Sirmaur and Kullu

<ul class="summary-list"><li>Electric Autonomy's design competition reimagines the <keyword id="12003783" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="ev-charging-station" source="Orion">EV charging station</keyword> experience.</li><li>The top designs in the competition focus on turning stations into a destination rather than a stop on the way.</li></ul>A new design competition took a stab at what the future of electric vehicle charging could look like.On Tuesday, <keyword id="11893589" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="news" source="Orion">news</keyword> outlet Electric Autonomy <a href="https://electricautonomy.ca/2022/02/01/winners-ev-charging-station-designs/">announced</a> the winners of its international competition that sought to reimagine <keyword id="12000721" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="ev-charging" source="Orion">EV charging</keyword> stations. Parkland, a fuel retailer and the competition's lead sponsor, said it plans to implement the winning design in at least one charging station in British Columbia.The top three designs reimagine charging stations as destinations, rather than bare-bones stops along the way. James Silvester, the lead architect at JAS Group and the winner of the competition, said in a press release that he created his design as a space "to be enjoyed" rather than "simply a process on the journey."<div type="image" title="Electric Autonomy design competition winner" height="1440" width="2560" msid="89307020" hostid="261"></div>Silvester's design has an oblong shape and includes sustainable elements like rainwater collection and solar energy harvesting. The design also relies heavily on timber — a nod to one of Canada's top resources.The roof overhang is designed to provide relief from harsh Canadian weather, while the solar-powered lights make the station easy to see from the road.<div type="image" title="Electric Autonomy design competition" height="2160" width="3840" msid="89307022" hostid="261"></div>The design focuses on allowing drivers to relax and "recharge" alongside their vehicle, Silvester said.The charging station would include a fitness center, garden, art gallery, and farmer's market.<div type="image" title="Electric Autonomy design competition winner" height="2160" width="3840" msid="89307023" hostid="261"></div>Ian White, senior vice president of strategic marketing and innovation at Parkland, said the intent of the design competition was to create envy among gas drivers by turning a 20 to 40-minute process that is <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/tesla-owners-hold-advantage-electric-cars-charging-stations-2021-7">typically tedious</a> into an immersive and enjoyable experience.Second and third place designs also focused on sustainability, as well as providing entertainment and community at the charging stations. <div type="image" title="Electric Autonomy competition winner" height="4320" width="5760" msid="89307025" hostid="261"></div>The runner up was created by Selçuk Kişmir, an architect based out of Istanbul, Turkey.The charging station has a circular design and includes spaces for drivers to work as well as play outside with their children.<div type="image" title="Electric Autonomy competition winner" height="4320" width="7680" msid="89307026" hostid="261"></div>Third place designer Pavel Babiienko, an architect based out of Berlin, said he wanted to create an environment were people could relax and find community with other EV drivers, as well find space to work and study.<div type="image" title="Electric Autonomy third place" height="2221" width="2961" msid="89307027" hostid="261"></div>The station design includes an outdoor play area, as well as a cafe.<div type="image" title="Electric Autonomy third place" height="3000" width="4000" msid="89307029" hostid="261"></div>Charging infrastructure poses a major hurdle for electric-vehicle adoption. <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/electric-car-owners-switching-gas-charging-a-hassle-study-2021-4">Insider's Dominick Reuter previously reported</a> that one in five EV owners has switched back to gas <keyword id="20632" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="cars" source="Orion">cars</keyword> because charging represented too much of a "hassle."During the summer, CNBC reporter Brian Sullivan and Axios editor Dan Primack broke down several of the issues EV drivers can face on the road — from <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/tesla-owners-hold-advantage-electric-cars-charging-stations-2021-7">"panicked" searches</a> for open chargers to <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/california-road-trip-reveals-tesla-advantages-over-other-electric-cars-2021-8">waiting 40 minutes</a> in triple-digit heat for a car to recharge. Both drivers concluded that the best way to help drivers make the switch to <keyword id="6358835" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="electric-cars" source="Orion">electric cars</keyword> would be to turn charging stations into destinations."Give people a place to stop, shop," Sullivan said. "Give them something to do." By reimagining charging stations instead of duplicating gas stations, EV companies would follow <keyword id="11900744" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="tesla" source="Orion">Tesla</keyword>'s lead. Several Tesla charging stations include <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2018/01/27/tesla-supercharging-station-with-lounge-what-its-like.html">lounges with coffee bars, vending machines, and Tesla merchandise.</a> Tesla CEO Elon Musk has even considered building a <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/949831212326993920">charging station with a restaurant attached.</a>

See what the future of charging stations for electric cars could look like, according to the winners of an international design competition

<a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/financing-a-sustainable-future-2022"></a><div type="image" title="a woman working in the MAS Holdings building" height="4000" width="5333" msid="91109056" hostid="261"></div><ul class="summary-list"><li>MAS Holdings is an <keyword id="11899424" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="apparel" source="Orion">apparel</keyword> manufacturer for brands like <keyword id="12062051" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="lululemon" source="Orion">Lululemon</keyword> and New Balance in <keyword id="11916313" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="sri-lanka" source="Orion">Sri Lanka</keyword>.</li><li>The company committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 25.2% and is already making strides.</li><li>Initiatives so far include generating renewable energy, eliminating waste, and reducing water usage.</li></ul>While the fashion industry emits some <a href="https://www.mckinsey.com/~/media/mckinsey/industries/retail/our%20insights/fashion%20on%20climate/fashion-on-climate-full-report.pdf" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">2 billion metric tons</a> of greenhouse gasses a year, Sri Lanka-based <a href="https://www.masholdings.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">MAS Holdings</a> is taking action.A manufacturer for big brands like Lululemon, New Balance, and Thinx, the athleisure and intimate apparel purveyor has made major public commitments, like reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 25.2% by 2025. <div type="image" title="headshot of Sid Amalean" height="1462" width="1950" msid="91109057" hostid="261"></div>"We're trying to buck the trend and really be the difference and the change in the industry," Sid Amalean, the head of sustainable business at MAS Holdings, told Insider. In January, the organization launched <a href="https://www.masholdings.com/plan-for-change/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">MAS Plan for Change,</a> which outlines goals for improving operations by 2025 in three focus areas: products, lives, and the planet. MAS also signed onto the <a href="https://sciencebasedtargets.org/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Science Based Targets initiative</a> (SBTi), a multi-organization partnership that helps private-sector companies set emissions targets, track progress, and see how they compare to others in their industry.Founded in 1987 and currently employing more than 100,000 people, the manufacturer has facilities in 15 countries, including Kenya and Mexico, and brought in $2 billion in 2018.<div type="image" title="people working in a factory" height="675" width="900" msid="91109058" hostid="261"></div>Amalean said the company is financing the climate-action work through debt, general revenue, and an independent nonprofit, <a href="https://www.masholdings.in/the-foundation/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">MAS Foundation for Change</a>, that the company set up in 2022 to fund long-term, large-scale projects with no return on investment, like building a water reservoir at its headquarters. Under its master plan, MAS has also committed to having 85% of its suppliers and all of its joint-venture investments adopt science-based targets. The investment is worthwhile and will build brand equity, resonate with consumers, and help the planet, Amalean added. "Just setting aside the obvious social and environmental reasons to be doing this, even if you're just a 100% business-minded and profit-minded, it still makes sense."Other manufacturers like South Korea-based <a href="https://www.hansoll.com/_ENG/html/csr.html" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Hansoll Textile</a> have also pledged to reduce carbon emissions and create more sustainable products by 2030, and more than 130 brands <a href="https://unfccc.int/news/fashion-industry-steps-up-climate-ambition-with-renewed-charter" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">signed the Fashion Industry Charter for Climate Action</a> to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.<h2>Making progress on <keyword id="11896309" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="100" keywordseo="sustainability" source="Orion">sustainability</keyword> through inclusivity, renewable energy, and waste management</h2><div type="image" title="two women holding a baby between them" height="800" width="1066" msid="91109059" hostid="261"></div>Even before launching the Plan for Change, MAS was dedicated to social and environmental causes, Amalean said. In 2003, they launched <a href="https://www.masholdings.com/plan-for-change/lives-changed-for-good/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Women Go Beyond</a> to address skills gaps for female workers in Sri Lanka and create gender equality in the business. Now 22% of management positions at the company are held by women. Initiatives like these or biodiversity restoration, where there's absolutely no clear revenue source, are considered operational expenditures or a cost of doing business.The company also aims to promote inclusivity, fair wages, and safe workplaces and offers childcare at 20 of its 50 facilities. Generating more renewable energy than it consumes is a central part of its sustainability initiative, and as of December 2021, 57% of the company was running on renewable energy sources.MAS recently completed the first phase of project <a href="https://www.masfabricpark.com/mas-photon.html" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Photon</a>, the largest multisite solar rooftop installation in Sri Lanka. It features 48,000 <keyword id="11957104" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="solar-panels" source="Orion">solar panels</keyword> spanning one million square feet and generates enough electricity to power 14,000 homes. Amalean said it was funded using 70% debt and 30% private equity investment, totaling about $12 million for 16 megawatts. More phases are in the works, he added.For initiatives like solar projects that have a positive net present value (NPV), it's relatively easy to find financing options, Amalean said. Banks are more willing to lend when there's a clear recurring revenue and associated payback period.<div type="image" title="a man installing solar panels" height="5499" width="7332" msid="91109060" hostid="261"></div>Eliminating waste is another goal. Amalean said MAS monitors and tracks waste at its facilities and strives to divert most of it from landfills. More than 40% of nontoxic, nonhazardous waste materials are recycled, reused, or turned into new resources.MAS has also reduced water usage in <keyword id="6362048" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="60" keywordseo="manufacturing" source="Orion">manufacturing</keyword> by 39% through rainwater harvesting, water-free dying processes, and reverse osmosis water filtration to reuse wastewater, Amalean added.<h2>Promoting accountability in the supply chain and measuring success</h2>In 2021, MAS generated 21% of its revenue from sustainable projects — the goal is 50% by 2025. Amalean said the company is also focused on sourcing recycled, organic, natural, and responsibly-sourced raw materials, making its design and manufacturing processes more efficient, and using post-consumer waste to create new products. Additionally, MAS is requiring suppliers to comply with the <a href="https://www.roadmaptozero.com/about?locale=en" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Zero Discharge of Hazardous Chemicals</a> program, a fashion industry initiative to eliminate harmful chemicals from the supply chain. Suppliers are "strongly encouraged" to sign up for the <a href="https://apparelcoalition.org/the-higg-index/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Higg Facility Environmental Module</a> assessment, Amalean said, and MAS tracks suppliers' progress using FEM and other tools, including <a href="https://www.cleanchain.com/about-us/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">CleanChain</a> and <a href="https://www.scivera.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored">Scivera</a>. MAS's sustainable business team of about 15 works companywide to ensure its own planet-focused progress, Amalean said, and uses a customized calibration tool to track how each facility is meeting environmental targets. Different facilities are at different stages, he added.While Amalean's team leads the company's climate-action initiatives, everyone in every department has sustainability goals. "Everybody's thinking about it and motivated to be sustainable," he said. "Otherwise, we get into silos and it's like, 'Oh, the sustainability team over there, they want us to do things.' There's no they and him and her. Everybody's doing this together."

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